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Vern R. Larson, age 90 of Clinton, passed away Monday, May 13, 2024 at Pleasant View nursing Home in Morrison, IL. Funeral services will be held at 11:15 AM on Sunday, May 19 at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 6:00 PM Saturday, May 18 at the Pape Funeral Home. Burial will be in Clinton Lawn Cemetery.
Vern was born in Stoughton, WI on September 24, 1933, the son of Garold P. and Esther (Johnsen) Larson. He graduated from Lyons High School in 1951. He enlisted in the U. S. Navy in 1951 serving as a Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class on board the USS Baltimore. He was awarded the Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Naval Occupation Medal w/ European Clasp. The Baltimore participated in the Naval Review for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1954, Vern attended Michigan State University for 2 years. Vern married Barbara Kuehner on October 6, 1963 at St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Clinton. Vern served with the Clinton Fire Department from 1958 to 1992 when he retired as Assistant Fire Chief. During that time, he trained at the Arson Investigation Academy in Brunswick, Georgia. He was member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, AMVETS, VFW, American Legion, and Sons of Norway. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and rosemaling.
Vern is survived by his wife Barbara; a son, Dr. Earl Larson of Jacksonville, FL; a daughter, Dea Larson of Clinton; a granddaughter, Brooke Larson of Clinton and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Geraldine Fish and Lorrayne Leeder. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Clinton Fire Department, or St. Paul Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
I extend my most Solemn Greetings from Louisiana to Vern’s family, friends, and Brother Firefighters. Vern was very talented in the wood working business. He was the Master of that craft indeed! As a Senior Brother Firefighter, he was always an excellent example for me to follow. He had tons of common sense, and I was most fortunate to absorb a little of that hidden talent from him through the years we worked together. After I left town, he was doggone delighted to see me progress in my career, and we shared some great visits and memories when I returned to Clinton through the years. Rest in Paradise my Brother!!!
Barb, I am sorry to hear about the passing of Vern. He was so active in our Sons of Norway. Always willing to volunteer when asked. His artistic talent ranged from making knives to Rose malling. He & you served up many wonderful Norwegian foods at our SON meetings. He was proud & passionate of his Norwegian upbringing. God bless his memories.
Barb and family -I recall what a wonderful family – so sincere and compassionate.
I was so sorry to learn of your loss -I have vivid memories of my brief discussions with you and Vern.
Sincerely,
Peter Gluck
Barb and family, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Barb and family. I am saddened to hear of Vern’s passing. I will keep you in my prayers.
Barb and family, I was saddened to read of Vern’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers these difficult days. Sadly, another rosemaler has left us.